5 Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Accident in Colorado

A car accident can turn your day upside down in seconds. Between the shock, the noise, and the confusion, it’s easy to make a wrong move that costs you later. At Kimball Injury Law in Colorado Springs, we see these mistakes every day — and we help our clients recover from them. Understanding what to do immediately after an accident, and what to avoid, can make the difference between a denied claim and a full recovery.

1. Don’t Leave the Car Accident Scene Too Soon

Even if it’s a minor fender-bender, leaving before law enforcement arrives can hurt your case. In Colorado, you’re required to stay on scene and exchange information. Always wait for a police report — it’s a critical piece of evidence for your insurance and your injury claim.

If possible, take photos of your car, the other vehicle, and the surrounding area. Local intersections like Academy Boulevard, I-25, or Garden of the Gods Road are common crash sites in Colorado Springs, and documenting the scene can help your attorney later on.

2. Avoid Admitting Fault — Even Casually

Many drivers instinctively apologize after a crash, even if they didn’t cause it. Unfortunately, insurance companies can twist those words into an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts: exchange insurance details, answer the officer’s questions truthfully, and avoid speculating about what happened.

Kimball Injury Law regularly handles cases where a simple statement like “I didn’t see them” was used to shift blame. Let the evidence — not emotion — tell the story.

3. Don’t Skip Medical Care

After an accident, adrenaline can mask pain. You might feel “fine” at first, only to wake up sore or dizzy later. In Colorado Springs, doctors at UCHealth Memorial Hospital or Penrose Hospital can document your injuries, ensuring a medical record exists if you develop symptoms later.

If you wait too long to see a doctor, insurance adjusters often argue your injuries aren’t related to the crash. Getting checked early protects both your health and your legal claim.

4. Don’t Speak to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Guidance

It’s common for insurance representatives to call quickly after a collision — sometimes the very next day. Their goal isn’t to help you; it’s to minimize the payout. Before making any recorded statements, talk with your attorney at Kimball Injury Law.

Your lawyer can handle all communication, ensuring you don’t say something that could reduce your settlement. This small step often makes the biggest difference in compensation outcomes.

5. Don’t Wait Too Long to Call a Lawyer

Colorado has strict deadlines for filing car accident claims. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to gather evidence, contact witnesses, and build a case. Kimball Injury Law offers free consultations for injured drivers and passengers across Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs, and Pueblo, helping them act fast and stay protected.

Prompt legal guidance ensures evidence like dashcam footage, police reports, and witness statements don’t disappear before you can use them.

Protect Yourself After a Crash

Avoiding these car accident mistakes can save you time, stress, and thousands in lost compensation. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills or insurance pressure, Kimball Injury Law is here to help you take the right steps from day one.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t wait — reach out to our experienced team today at Kimball Injury Law for a free consultation and protect your future.